Your Stress-Free Guide to Finding a Home
Renting a property in today's fast-paced market can feel overwhelming – but at NGU Homes, we're here to make it simple, transparent, and stress-free.
With over 15 years' experience and a dedicated team of friendly, highly trained professionals, we're proud to support tenants at every step – from your first enquiry to moving in (and beyond).
Your Guide to Renting Property
Before you begin your search:
- Decide where you want to live
- Know how much you can comfortably afford each month
- Consider your essential needs vs. nice-to-haves
When you enquire with us, we'll take you through a pre-application form to help assess affordability – this ensures you're not applying for a property that may cause financial strain down the line.
We apply strict affordability criteria (similar to how a bank lends money) to protect both tenants and landlords.
We do accept Universal Credit tenants and assess each application fairly.
Once you've set your criteria:
- Speak to an agent and explain your needs
- We'll recommend available homes that suit your situation
- Viewings are arranged quickly – the market moves fast, so knowing what you want helps you act decisively
Once you've found the right property:
- Pay a holding deposit (usually one week's rent) to reserve it
- This deposit is applied toward your final rent/deposit balance
You'll then begin the vetting process, which includes:
- Credit checks (which do not affect your credit score)
- References from employers/landlords
- Proof of ID and Right to Rent in the UK
Our in-house vetting team works quickly – most applications are processed within 7 days.
Be open and honest during this process. False or misleading information could result in your application being declined and your holding deposit being withheld.
Once approved:
- You'll receive your tenancy agreement and property inventory
- Read everything carefully and ask us about anything you're unsure of
- Pay the remaining rent and deposit balance
- We'll then arrange your move-in date and key collection
Here's a quick breakdown of upfront tenant costs:
- Holding Deposit – One week's rent to reserve the property (deducted from the final balance)
- Rent & Deposit (Professionals) – Typically one month's rent + one month's deposit
- Rent & Deposit (Universal Credit/Housing Benefit) – We usually take a smaller upfront rent amount (the difference between your entitlement and the full rent), plus one month's deposit
- Pet Deposit – Approx. one week's rent for additional wear & tear
- No-Deposit Option – We also offer a no deposit solution with a small, one-off check-in fee reducing your move-in costs
Congratulations! It's time to move into your new home. Here's what you should do before or shortly after moving in:
- Arrange contents insurance, effective from moving day
- Organise your removals or transport
- Update your address with banks, utilities and the post-office to ensure letters are forwarded
- Inform the council for council tax changes
- Take meter readings and contact your energy provider
- Read your tenant handbook – it includes key contact details and important info
Ongoing Support for Our Tenants
Most of our rental properties are fully managed by NGU Homes, so we'll remain your main point of contact throughout your tenancy. You can expect:
A Dedicated Property Manager – Your direct contact for queries or maintenance
24/7 Emergency Maintenance Line – For urgent issues anytime, day or night
Online Maintenance Reporting – The quickest way to log and track issues
Trusted Tradespeople – We work with long-standing, reliable professionals
Universal Credit Support – Our trained team can help with paperwork and direct payments
A Welcome Gift – Leave a review and receive a free welcome box as a thank-you!
Long-Term Tenant Relationships
We don't just find you a home – we're here for the long haul. Many of our tenants go on to rent multiple properties with us over the years. Why? Because we care, we communicate, and we get things done properly.
Whether this is your first rental or your next move, finding a home should be exciting, not exhausting. Our team is here to guide, support, and deliver – every step of the way.
Let's find your next home, together.
Looking to Rent a Property?
If you are looking to rent a property and need some assistance on getting started, our guide will show you all you need to know to help you make your decision.
Guide to RentingArrange a Repair
If you're having issues in a property we manage, please let us know immediately and we'll be happy to help wherever possible.
Arrange a RepairGet in Touch
If you would like to discuss your property-related enquiries, or have any questions, get in touch with our friendly team.
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